The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Sri Lanka, in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance, the Inland Revenue Department, University of Moratuwa, and the National Innovation Agency of Sri Lanka co-convened the first-ever National Tax Dialogue to address contemporary issues surrounding taxation and fiscal policies in the island.
State Minister of Finance Shehan Semasinghe and Resident Representative, UNDP in Sri Lanka, Ms. Azusa Kubota were also present.
The dialogue launched research findings from the first ‘Taxpayer Perception Study’ in Sri Lanka, collaboratively conducted by the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce and the UNDP in Sri Lanka. The nationally representative study revealed public perceptions on issues surrounding tax burden, evasion, trust in institutions, and experiences with revenue institutions which are particularly pertinent in the context of institutional reform.
The event featured plenaries of global experts renowned for their exceptional expertise in the realm of taxation.
UNDP in Sri Lanka, Resident Representative, Ms. Azusa Kubota said, “Sri Lanka’s economic crisis offers a historic opportunity to optimise the use of resources for SDG attainment. This entails concerted efforts to strengthen links among planning, budgeting, monitoring and oversight and citizens’ engagement.
